An ancient palace currently notable due to the discovery of three grenades during construction work for a hotel inside it. It is believed that these grenades are related to the Civil War and the presence of General José Varela in the area. Patricio Hidalgo, a pharmacy colonel and author of books on the topic, provided his perspective on this unexpected finding.
"José Varela arrived in Córdoba in the early days of the military uprising in August 1936 to lead operations. The grenades likely belonged to the national side and were used for defense," Hidalgo explained. The Casa de los Guzmanes, which will soon become a five-star hotel, played a strategic role during the Civil War, serving as a focal point for spies and Republican guerrillas in the region.
The historian mentioned that Córdoba was one of the most bombed cities during the Civil War due to its proximity to the front. The uncertainty surrounding the discovered grenades persists, as they may have been stored as a preventive measure. Patricio Hidalgo raised the possibility that these weapons were kept in case of need.
Regarding the plaque that mentioned José Varela's residence in the Casa de los Guzmanes, it was removed by the City Council in 2011. Varela, who became a military governor, had a significant presence in the defense of the city. Hidalgo pointed out that during that period, the whereabouts of the general were known among the population, which could have led to the presence of these grenades at the location.
History suggests that bombings of the Casa de los Guzmanes were frequent during the Civil War, as it was considered a military target by Republican forces. The presence of these grenades in the hotel construction has highlighted a forgotten part of Córdoba's history during that military conflict.
